New England Islands Cruise

Travel with American Cruise Lines as we discover the New England Islands. Each day is filled with customized shore excursions narrated by private island guides and knowledgeable onboard experts. Explore the rich marine history of New Bedford, once known as the whaling capital of the world and the inspiration behind the classic American novel, Moby Dick. While in Nantucket, learn about the island’s early history, the popular rose-covered cottage style homes, and popular art community. Visit the many historic towns in Martha’s Vineyard, and stop at a local gingerbread house for fresh lemonade and cookies. You will be amazed by the awe-inspiring Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island and the opulent seaside estates along the "Avenue of the Mansions" in Newport.

Ask about our Current Savings and exclusive Providence Pre-Cruise Package which includes a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship. See the Schedules & Rates tab for Current Savings.

Cruise Itinerary

New England Islands Cruise

A cruise through the New England Islands will take you to beautiful seaside villages and stunning locales such as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, adorned with the finest examples of Colonial and Victorian architecture. As you island hop, enjoy exquisite cuisine prepared with locally sourced seafood.

Ports of Call

Pre-Cruise Package Available

Providence, RI

New Bedford, MA

Nantucket Island, MA

Martha's Vineyard, MA

Block Island, RI

Newport, RI

Bristol, RI

Providence, RI

Day by Day

Pre-CruisePre-Cruise Package Available

Our custom Providence Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience the city and easily board the ship. Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium 4-star hotel stay in downtown Providence, a complete city tour on the morning of your cruise, and transportation to the ship. Please call for additional details and availability.

Pre-Cruise Tour of Providence

The Pre-Cruise Tour of Providence brings you to all the city’s highlights. For convenience, the tour meets in the hotel lobby after breakfast and concludes at the ship for the perfect start to your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Day
1Providence, RI

The state capital of Rhode Island is known as the “Renaissance City," with a host of attractions for visitors to enjoy including acclaimed theaters, fine arts, and Philharmonic performances. Over three centuries of fascinating history are preserved in Providence from Benefit Street’s “Mile of History” to the immaculate examples of Colonial and Victorian architecture.

Day
2New Bedford, MA

In the mid19th-century, New Bedford was the whaling capital of the world and became the inspiration behind Herman Melville's classic American novel, Moby Dick, in 1841. Today, New Bedford is still known as "The Whaling City," with an authentic seaport village, large fishing fleet, and working waterfront.

New Bedford Whaling Museum

In this famous whaling city, the New Bedford Whaling Museum is the largest of its kind, devoted to the history of North American whaling. Your tour begins with a narrated walk led by a park ranger or a trolley ride to the Visitors Center. Enjoy a short introductory film in the theater and time to explore, before taking a short walk across the street to visit the Whaling Museum. Take a guided or self-guided tour through the exhibits to gain an understanding of the industry that shaped the town of New Bedford.

Acushnet Harbor Cruise

After a hearty East Coast-inspired breakfast, the harbor cruise captain will greet you at the ship and take you on an intimate historical New Bedford / Fairhaven harbor cruise. Explore the popular Palmer’s Island Lighthouse, Fort Phoenix, a working fishing fleet, and the largest hurricane barrier on the East Coast. Your captain will also share insights into the local fishing industry and their focus on scallops. After you arrive back to the ship, enjoy a seafood dinner made from the locally sourced scallops and fish.

Day
3Nantucket Island, MA

Be transported back to the 18th century as you step off your ship onto the timeworn cobblestone streets of Nantucket. Discover how this delightful island evolved from a small farming community to be the center of the American whaling industry and later a popular resort community. Nantucket is a world unto itself, with towering church steeples and old-world architecture.

Nantucket Island Tour

As we approach the tranquil shores of Nantucket, the captain will set anchor in the calm sound for a breathtaking view of Nantucket. In the morning, we will tender into shore where you will be greeted by our native Nantucket guide who will serve as our island escort. During a private charter, your engaging guide will share stories of the island’s early history, the popular rose-covered cottage style homes, and intriguing art community. Stop to explore the cranberry bogs and local lighthouses before enjoying free time in the popular downtown to shop or dine at your leisure. In the afternoon, our onboard guest lecturer will enhance your visit, by leading you on a guided walking tour to explore Brant Point Lighthouse.

Day
4Martha's Vineyard, MA

Martha's Vineyard was once a hub for whaling fleets and merchant ships, with exotic cargo from the far corners of the world arriving on her shores. Today, the island is one of the most popular vacation spots in New England, comprised of six distinct towns, including Chilmark and Vineyard Haven. The most genteel town on the island is historic Edgartown, prim and proper with its freshly painted Colonial homes and manicured gardens.

Lighthouses & Gingerbread Cottages Tour

As we dock in Vineyard Haven, you will be immediately surprised by the charm of the quaint seaside village. Our local island guide will greet us at the harbor and take us on a personalized tour of Martha’s Vineyard. Visit the many historic towns, including, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and West Tisbury. Enjoy ample free time to explore the village and local shops of Edgartown. Once back at the ship, meet up with our onboard lecturer who will take the group to Oak Bluffs for a narrated tour of the gingerbread cottages. Your tour will conclude with a visit to Bill Ewen’s gingerbread home for freshly made lemonade and cookies. In the evening, musical great, Mark Alan Lovewell will entertain everyone onboard with popular sea chantey sing-a-long songs.

Day
5Block Island, RI

Stroll along Mohegan Bluffs and admire the Southeast Lighthouse, located along the southern shore of the island. The bluffs rise 200 feet above the ocean and stretch 3 miles along the shoreline. This small island off the coast of Rhode Island has become a popular summertime destination, adored for its easy-going attitude, splendid nature trails, and breathtaking views.

Scenic Bluffs & Preserves Tour

As you ride along the scenic Mohegan Bluffs gazing upon the colorful sails which illuminate its harbors, it will come as no surprise why this area serves as inspiration for many artists. Known simply on the island as “Howie,” your private guide for the day is nothing short of a local legend. Along with Howie, we will visit all the main attractions of the island, while also showing you its treasured nooks, of which only the most experienced locals are aware. As your tour winds along the scenic bluffs on the way to Old Harbor, you will make a stop at the famous Southeast Lighthouse before having time to peruse the quaint boutiques of the harbor. While in Old Harbor, sip on a glass of refreshing Del’s Lemonade, a local Rhode Island summer treat for over 70 years, before rejoining the ship for cocktails and a seafood-inspired feast.

Day
6Newport, RI

Nestled within Narragansett Bay is Newport, the yachting capital of the world. As you stroll along the beautiful beaches, historic neighborhoods, bustling wharves, and scenic waterfront, you will find Newport offers something for everyone. Visit the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame. Explore Newport's fabled past with glimpses of opulent seaside estates along the "Avenue of the Mansions."

Avenue of the Mansions Tour

Travel back in time to the epicenter of 19th-century opulence as a knowledgeable guide takes you down one of the most architecturally impressive avenues in the world. Learn about the owners of the homes and their monetary successes as you travel along the spectacular Ocean View Drive and Bellevue Avenue, before concluding at the “grande dame” of them all, The Breakers Mansion. A portrayal of the social and financial prominence of the Vanderbilt family at the turn of the century, the architecture of this seventy-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo is remarkable. Take a leisurely audio tour of the home and learn about the Vanderbilt family and their inspiration behind building this impressive summer “cottage.” At the conclusion of the tour, you will have time to explore the bustling Newport waterfront at your own pace.

Guided Tour of Fort Adams - Complimentary Excursion

Newport, RI boasts one of the finest natural harbors in the world. The night before your arrival, engage in an enlightening lecture of how Newport’s earliest settlers protected the harbor from intruders and also used it to achieve monetary successes. The intimate size of our ship allows us to dock right at Fort Adams, the well-known fort used to protect the harbor, and puts us just a short ride away from Newport’s bustling riverfront. Our onboard lecturer will walk you over to the fort and answer any questions you may have before leading you to a knowledgeable park ranger who will delve deeper into the history of the fort and the military and naval strategies implemented there.

Day
7Bristol, RI

Visit Battleship Cove, a unique "floating" museum recognized as the world's largest collection of 20th-century U.S. naval fighting ships. Relive childhood memories on the magnificent, fully-restored carousel at Battleship Cove, the oldest functioning carousel in America. Explore the collection of intricate model ships and other nautical keepsakes at Fall River's Marine Museum.

Herreshoff Marine Museum & America's Cup Hall of Fame

As the ship pulls into port, the Herreshoff Marine Museum can be seen from the comfort of your private balcony. A guide will greet you at the ship and walk with you across the street to the museum which features some of the finest yachts built during “The Golden Age of Yachting.” The museum also features the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, which honors those who have competed in the most renowned international yachting event in the world.

Day
8Providence, RI

Providence offers a number of shore excursions that will delight any member of your travel group. Simply take a walk through Waterplace Park to the River Walk, or admire the architecture of the Cathedral of Saints Paul and Peter. No matter what type of activity you are looking for, Providence has it all.

Independence

The Independence is equipped with the largest staterooms in the industry, most featuring a private balcony. With the latest in navigation and safety technology, the Independence is fully stabilized, allowing American Cruise Lines to reach even more fascinating destinations in smooth comfort. Complete with an exercise area and putting green, the Independence offers guests a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Experience complete comfort in this spacious private sanctuary where you can feel right at home. At 350 sq. ft. the Owner’s Suite is quite roomy and features a full-size bathroom. Enjoy a large sitting area, writing desk, closet, and a private balcony offering expansive views from a stunning vantage point.

AAC (Private Balcony)

These staterooms are centrally located on the top deck which provides stunning panoramic views. Enjoy 283 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, comparable to a fine hotel room. All also offer private walk-out balconies and a generously sized bathroom.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms are a spacious retreat with all the amenities a modern traveler expects. Each room offers 263 sq. ft. of space encompassing a full-size bathroom and a private balcony with scenic views.

A

These comfortable staterooms located on the main deck offer 258 sq. ft. of living space and are a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. They feature full-size bathrooms, interior entrances, and large opening picture windows for scenic views.

Single (Private Balcony)

Single staterooms offer the solo traveler a quiet enclave to rest and relax. Our Single suites feature twin beds, spacious bathrooms, and your very own private balcony.

Single

Located on the main deck, our Single staterooms offer guests 207 sq. ft. of space with premium beds, spacious bathrooms, and an opening picture window with private views.

Independence Deck Plan

American Star

The American Star offers guests the same style of cruising that has become the hallmark of American Cruise Lines. From charming small towns to gracious ports, the American Star brings guests to places of historic interest and magnificent beauty. Onboard, guests can unwind in the friendly and accommodating atmosphere, as they enjoy personalized service by an attentive, all-American staff.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Experience complete comfort in this spacious private sanctuary where you can feel right at home. At 350 sq. ft. the Owner’s Suite is quite roomy and offers a full-size bathroom. Enjoy a large sitting area, a writing desk, closet, and a private balcony offering expansive views from a stunning vantage point.

AAC (Private Balcony)

These 283 sq. ft. staterooms are located on the top deck which provides privacy and great panoramic views. The living space is comparable to that of a fine hotel room and offers a writing desk, a closet, a full-size bathroom and a private balcony.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms are a spacious retreat with all the amenities a modern traveler expects. Each room offers 263 sq. ft. of space encompassing a full-size bathroom, a private balcony, and a large opening picture window.

AA

AA Category staterooms are the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Each 258 sq. ft. room has a large opening picture window with views of the passing scenery. The rooms also offer full-size bathrooms and plenty of closet space.

A

A category rooms are a quiet enclave for total relaxation. They come equipped with a full assortment of modern amenities and a large opening picture window. Each room is 258 sq. ft. and is ideal for cruising the inland waterways of the East Coast.

Single (Private Balcony)

The intimate atmosphere of each Single stateroom is ideal for the solo traveler. At 248 sq. ft. each room has a twin bed, a full-size bathroom, a private balcony, and plenty of room to spread out and make yourself at home.

American Star Deck Plan

American Constitution

The newly-announced American Constitution is scheduled to begin cruising the East Coast this spring. With a capacity of 175 passengers, the American Constitution will feature the latest in technology, modern design, and sophisticated décor. The American Constitution also features large well-appointed staterooms with private balconies, as well as a variety of spacious lounges.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

At up to 450 sq. ft., the American Constitution Owner's Suites are both spacious and elegantly appointed. Located on a private deck, each secluded suite offers our distinguished travelers amazing views from the private walk-out balcony. The well-furnished suites come fully equipped and offer a sitting area, writer’s desk, sliding glass door, and full-size bathroom.

Veranda Suite (Private Balcony)

With a generous up to 450 sq. ft. of relaxing space, each Veranda suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.

AAM (Private Balcony)

Our AAM staterooms are designed to offer the privacy you desire while cruising. Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms are elegantly furnished and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that lead to a private walk-out balcony where the grandness of the Northeast, Hudson, and Southeast scenery can be enjoyed.

AAC (Private Balcony)

Featuring the most modern amenities, our spacious AAC staterooms offer the perfect retreat for travelers. With over 350 sq. ft., each stateroom offers all of the comforts of a fine hotel and is configured to maximize the interior living space. These stateroom also feature full sliding glass doors and a private walk-out balcony which provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

AAL (Private Balcony)

Our AAL staterooms offer all the comforts of home and amazing panoramic views. At 350 sq. ft. each room includes an interior entrance, expansive private walk-out balcony, and a large sitting area. These staterooms are the perfect sanctuary to relax in after a day of exploration.

AA

Centrally located, these 302 sq. ft. staterooms offer amazing views and easy access to the lounge areas. You will enjoy the expansive views out of your own large opening picture window. Each room comes equipped with a large closet and hotel-size bathrooms.

Single (Private Balcony)

Solo travelers will find relaxing comfort in our Single staterooms complete with a walk-out private balcony. Enjoy one of the largest Single staterooms in the industry at 250 sq. ft., featuring a comfortable twin bed, large sliding glass door, and spacious full-size bathrooms.

Single

Find modern amenities and relaxing comfort in our 226 sq. ft. Single staterooms. With a large picture window, twin beds and sizable bathrooms, these Single staterooms are perfect for solo travelers.

American Constitution Deck Plan

New England Lobsterbake Cruise

Mention New England and one of the first things that comes to mind is lobster. Enjoy a traditional Lobsterbake on our New England Islands cruise and indulge in many flavorful lobster dishes, including tenderloin and stuffed lobster tail, Cape Cod lobster pot pie, and whole steamed lobsters.

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About

We provide guests an extraordinary river cruising experience while exploring the historic waterways of the United States. Cruise in comfort aboard our modern fleet of river boats and paddlewheelers. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service on every cruise.